Laughter really is the best medicine

September 2025--We’ve all heard the phrase, “Laughter is the best medicine,” right? Well, if that’s true (and I believe it is), then I’ve gotten more than my share of the very best medicine.

I know the difference between laughing at someone and laughing with someone. One can hurt others, and the other can sometimes make your own belly hurt.

I had an experience not too long ago when some friends from North Carolina came to Michigan for a few days. I did both—laughed at her and with her all at the same time. We were in a store when she tried on a sweatshirt right there in the open. It was not fitting as she had expected, so she attempted to remove it. Problem was, it wouldn’t come off easily. I stood there laughing at her—and soon was laughing with her as I tried to pull on one of the sleeves.

The two of us were laughing out loud and caught the attention of other shoppers. We eventually were successful in getting that sweatshirt off —and realized two young ladies were watching the whole escapade. One of them smiled and said, You two remind me of my mom and my aunt—having fun and making memories.” Yes, we were.

And another instance of such laughter with two awesome ladies who traveled to my home state so we could share a meal, and it turned out to be so much more. We were going to meet at a restaurant that is famously known for its extraordinary burgers. I decided to put the address into my GPS even though I knew the way there. Just wanted to make sure that I was going to be there on time.

Imagine my surprise when the screen on my phone said this place was closed! It's a Tuesday. It's still tourist season in this town. Who closes on a Tuesday? Obviously, this place. I phoned them to let them know the restaurant was closed. They laughed and said in unison that’s ok. We decided to meet in the parking lot and then find a new place to have lunch. Well, less than 15 minutes later, they were phoning me and said one of the ladies needed to use the restroom and couldn't wait much longer, so pulling into an empty parking lot would waste precious time she did not have. They suggested a new place.

I had never been to this place—but oh my goodness, it was awesome. A rooftop patio that overlooked Lake Michigan! The food was fabulous, the service was incredible, and the weather and ambiance were amazing. And the laughs—they were out of this world—and they didn’t stop. I love these two ladies---we had all worked together for years, and now we’re all retired. This day’s laughter with two dear friends? It absolutely was just what the doctor ordered!

I'll admit, not every day is full of laughter. There are days when I’m just having a bad moment, and I’ll hear my phone ping. It’s a text from a man I used to work with, sending me a dad joke. The most recent one? “Why do moon rocks taste so much better than Earth rocks??? They’re a little meteor!!!” Yes, it’s corny, but you laughed, I know you did. As a matter of fact, I shared that one with quite a few people! And I shake my head wondering just how he knew I needed something to make me laugh. He’s awesome and seems to always have perfect timing.

I’ve just learned another benefit of a hardy hee-haw. According to the National Heart Foundation, laughter counts as cardio. Who knew? Yup—same benefits of a cardio workout. It gets your heart pumping and burns the same amount of calories as walking. Not to mention, it lowers LDL cholesterol and raises HDL cholesterol. So if you don’t see me out on the trails, it’s ok, I’ll be working out just the same.

I try to laugh each day. Sometimes I’m successful. Sometimes I’m not. But even when I’m not laughing, I’m trying to smile. Maybe a smile doesn’t count as cardio—but it’s got to count for at least a brisk walk around the block!

Did you know the benefits from laughter last—like for a whole day. There have been studies that show the effects of “mirthful” laughter can last 24 hours, hence your arteries stay relaxed, and your stress levels stay low. There are also some long-term effects. Yup. Negative thoughts manifest into chemical reactions that can affect your body by bringing more stress into your system and decreasing your immunity. However, positive thoughts can release neuropeptides, which help you fight stress and potentially more serious illnesses.

And you know how you can laugh so hard your sides hurt? Well, that same laughter also may ease pain by causing the body to produce its own natural painkillers. Plus, laughter enhances your intake of oxygen-rich air, which stimulates your heart, lungs, and muscles. (Again, like cardio does!)

I actually never really paid attention to what may be going on in my body when I laugh, but I will now. And I know on the outside, I’m enjoying those belly aches and splitting sides.

So, see? Laughter really is the best medicine.

In the meantime, remember to take it one day (or one laugh) at a time....

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